NFL Hall of Fame: Why Denver Broncos Legend Shannon Sharpe Belongs

The Hall of Fame Committee in Canton is soon to release their 2011 inductees, and I feel that there is a strong case for Shannon Sharpe's induction into the Hall of Fame this year. Okay, as a lifelong Broncos fan, I'm probably a little biased. But I think that Mr. Sharpe's body of work speaks for itself. Consider the following:

Sharpe made the Pro Bowl eight times in his 14 year career.

He was a part of three Super Bowl teams, including the 1997 and 1998 Broncos and the 2000 Ravens.

Until Tony Gonzalez, Sharpe held the all-time record for career receiving yards at 10,060.

He is also second all-time with 815 career receptions and 62 touchdown catches.

Tied a postseason record in a 1993 playoff game against Oakland where he amassed 13 catches for 156 yards.

Although I am a little biased, from an objective standpoint, I see Hall of Fame numbers. However, the icing on the cake in Sharpe's case would be the reputation that he earned during his playing days as well.

When Sharpe signed to play with Baltimore, Ozzie Newsome, GM of the Ravens, said, "I think he's a threat when he's on the field. He has to be double-teamed. He's a great route-runner. He's proven that he can make the big plays. That's what separates him. He's a threat."

As a Broncos fan, I feel that Sharpe is also just as responsible as John Elway was for Denver's first championship run as well. Many in Denver are proud to have had Sharpe play most of his career in Denver with the Broncos. If that weren't enough, there are probably a few Ravens fans that appreciate his contribution to their team as well. Shannon Sharpe, we salute you!